Afrobeats sensation Spyro has revealed the challenges of openly embracing Christianity in the Nigerian music industry, claiming that publicly identifying as a “Jesus boy” has subjected him to discrimination and a lack of support from key industry players.

In a candid conversation with Echo Room, Spyro recounted an insightful encounter with R&B star-turned-pastor, Banky W, who shared his own struggles in the music industry after declaring his faith in Jesus Christ.

The Cost of Proclaiming Faith

Spyro detailed the hurdles he faces, noting how proclaiming his faith has impacted his career trajectory.

“My biggest challenge in the music industry right now is discrimination. I came out with the ‘Jesus boy’ brand, and I’ve received the biggest criticisms,” he said.

The singer lamented the lack of support from influential figures in the industry, despite his success and talent.

“If you want to be truthful to yourself, how many media moguls support or post me when I drop songs? You see them posting other artists, but apart from the blogs I pay to post me, how many media moguls post me?”

Spyro attributed this resistance to the industry’s systemic bias against those who publicly proclaim Christ, stating, “It’s like the whole system is designed to pull you down.”

Banky W’s Cautionary Tale

Drawing from Banky W’s experience, Spyro revealed how the R&B artist warned him about the spiritual and professional battles that come with openly declaring faith.

“Banky W told me that his problem started in the industry the moment he proclaimed Christ. He said when he was a ‘bad boy,’ everything was going well, but immediately he decided to do it in a godly way, war started,” Spyro shared.

Faith vs. Industry Norms: A Delicate Balance

Spyro’s narrative highlights the tension between spirituality and the expectations of the entertainment industry. While many artists opt for secular content to achieve mainstream success, Spyro’s bold choice to align his music with his faith underscores the strength of his convictions.

His experience, however, exposes a troubling trend in the industry: a perceived intolerance for artists who prioritize faith-based messaging over commercially driven content.

Opinion: A Call for Inclusivity in Creativity

Spyro’s story is a reminder of the diverse expressions that make up the creative landscape. The entertainment industry thrives on variety, and faith-based artists should not have to choose between their beliefs and their careers.

While Spyro’s courage is commendable, his plight underscores the need for a cultural shift within the industry—one that celebrates authenticity and diversity in all its forms. Media moguls, stakeholders, and fans alike should rally behind artists who dare to break the mold, regardless of their message or method.

Spyro’s journey serves as both an inspiration and a call to action: that faith, talent, and success can coexist, and that the music industry has room for every voice—including those who sing for a higher purpose.